Set to lead the team for the first time as stand-in captain, Kishan says simplicity and the right mindset will pave the way to success
Pujab Newsline, Sports :
Ahead of the start of IPL 2026, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s stand-in captain Ishan Kishan has delivered a clear and confident message regarding his leadership approach. The tournament begins on March 28, with SRH set to face defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where all eyes will be on Kishan’s captaincy.
This opportunity is particularly special for Kishan, as regular captain Pat Cummins will be unavailable for the initial matches. Leading the side for the first time, Kishan made it clear that he wants to keep things simple and guide the team forward with clarity.
In a video released by the franchise, Kishan said that it has always been his dream to lead a team, and getting this opportunity is a matter of pride for him. He emphasized that in a big tournament like the IPL, all players are already highly skilled, so a captain’s role is mainly to keep them on the right track.
Kishan also shared his leadership mantra—stay calm, live in the present, and focus on one match at a time. He believes that staying mentally strong is crucial for consistent performance throughout the season. He added that the team will step onto the field to enjoy the game and deliver their best without pressure.
Addressing the fans, Kishan made a special appeal, saying that the love and support of SRH supporters is the team’s biggest strength, and this season they will aim to make them proud with their performances.
Notably, Kishan was in excellent form during the recent T20 World Cup 2026, where he scored 532 runs in 13 matches, showcasing his outstanding rhythm. Now, all eyes will be on both his captaincy and batting in the IPL.